DFP Family Update

Spring is in the air at DFP! Our students have been exploring all things weather—sunshine, wind, and rain—and even sharing daily weather reports. They are continuing to build early literacy skills by asking and answering “who” and “what” questions after stories and during social interactions throughout the day.

In our dramatic play areas, students are working cooperatively in the farm, pizza shop, and weather station, strengthening both their play and social skills. In social-emotional learning, we are focusing on understanding the difference between big problems and small problems—and practicing strategies to solve them.

With April break just one week away, we are making the most of every learning moment! Warmer temperatures are expected next week. Please note that our building is air-conditioned and will be used as needed—layers are always a great choice.

Enjoy this beautiful spring weekend, and we hope you can stop by the Hand-Me-Up Consignment Fair tomorrow from 12–3. All proceeds go directly toward our new playground!

Be well,

Julie Martin

Our spring conferences will take place on Thursday, May 14 from 5-7, Friday, May 15 from 12-3, and Wednesday, May 20 from 5-7. This is an opportunity to talk with your child's teacher about the progress your student has made and celebrate their growth. Your child's teacher will send more information about conferences in the coming weeks.

Due to the FIFA World Cup match scheduled for Tuesday, June 16, the School Committee has approved an early release day for Walpole Public Schools. The preschool program will dismiss at 11:00 a.m. Please note that for many of our students, this will be their final day of school.

Walpole Public Schools is proud to be in the running for the 2026 Terrific Tray of the Year, and we need your support! Our January-winning tray features a seasonally inspired Roasted Vegetable & Parmesan Crisp
Kale Salad, paired with local apple slices in celebration of Harvest of the Month. This fresh and flavorful meal highlights ingredients from regional partners, including:

• Joe Czajkowski Farm (Hadley, MA) – Brussels sprouts and carrots
• Brookdale Fruit Farm (Hollis, NH) – Apples
• The Good Crust (Maine) – Focaccia made with locally sourced grains

This recognition celebrates our commitment to serving nutritious, locally sourced meals to students across Walpole. Please take a moment to vote and help us earn the title!
Please vote before Friday, May 8, 2026. VOTE HERE

Thank you for supporting Walpole Public Schools and our school nutrition program!

As warmer temperatures approach, it is helpful to dress your student in layers. While the mornings can be cool, it is quickly starting to warm up! Also, sneakers and closed-toes shoes are best for running and jumping on the playground - please no flip flops as this is definitely a tripping hazard.

Finally, we are not allowed to apply sunscreen, big spray, etc. on your student. Please keep this in mind over these coming months - thank you.

A reminder to please be on time for both arrival and dismissal. Our school day begins promptly at 8:30 or 11:45 and that start sets up a successful day for your student.

Our students dismiss promptly at 11:00, 11:45, 1:30, or 2:15 (depending on their schedule). Teachers have other students who remain at school, or other professional obligations. Please be on time and if you are running late, please call the main office at Elm Street School: 508-660-7374 ext. 0. Thank you.

If you have a current tuition-paying student returning to DFP in the fall, you are now able to make your deposit between now and 4/30. An invoice will be visible in your myschoolbucks account. If you prefer to pay by cash or check, please send that directly to the School Business Office c/o Annmarie Khokha, 135 School Street Walpole, MA 02081. Please write your child's first and last name on the memo line.

April:

11- Hand-Me-Up Consignment Fair

14 - Music with Stacey Peasley

20-24 - April Break

May:

1 - DFP Dance

6- DFP Peer Screening for NEW students

14, 15 and 20 - DFP Parent/Teacher Conferences (more information forthcoming)

27 - DFP Parent Orientation Evening for NEW families entering DFP in the fall of 2026

April 11 - Hand-Me-Up Consignment Fair

May 1 - DFP DANCE 4:30-6:30 PM

Julie Martin, Director: jmartin@walpole.k12.ma.us

Tina DiCicco, School Nurse: 508-660-7374 ext. 5620

Annmarie Khokha, School Business Office, responsible for tuition payments: akhokha@walpole.k12.ma.us

Amanda Torigian, Administrative Assistant, Elm and DFP: atorigian@walpole.k12.ma.us

Susan Shea, Administrative Assistant, Elm and DFP: sshea@walpole.k12.ma.us